TRAVEL GUIDES FOR ADVENTURERS
Destination Guides
Authentic, firsthand guides for travelers who want more than a highlight reel — covering hotels, hikes, restaurants, and real trip-planning advice.
Most Recent Travel Guides
The Best Reef Safe Sunscreens for Hawaii (2026)
Your guide what reef-safe really means, which ingredients to avoid, and the best mineral sunscreens for Hawaii
Where to Stay on the Big Island of Hawaii: Best Hotels & Areas
Your guide for where to stay on your next trip to the Big Island, Hawaii.
Kona vs. Hilo: Which Side of the Big Island Is Best?
Kona or Hilo? Here's how to choose the right side of the Big Island for your trip.
Manta Ray Night Snorkel Review: Is It Worth It?
Is the Manta Night Snorkel Tour on the Big Island worth the hype?
Your Guide to Snorkeling on The Big Island, Hawaii
Your guide to snorkeling on the Big Island of Hawaii
A First-Timers Guide to the Big Island, Hawaii
Everything you need to know for your first trip to the Big Island of Hawaii
Fairmont Orchid Review, The Big Island Hawaii
Everything you need to know about staying at the Fairmont Orchid on the Big Island of Hawaii
Hi, I'm Jess — a Western North Carolina native now based in Greenville, SC. I've spent years exploring everywhere from the red rocks of Sedona to the single-track roads of the Isle of Skye, and I write about all of it here.
When I'm not planning someone's next adventure, you can find me hunting down the perfect swimming hole, chasing a good hike, or snuggling up with my pups.
If you consider yourself a traveler, not a vacationer — you're in the right place. Here you'll find firsthand guides to my favorite destinations, plus the tips and tricks you actually need to plan your next epic adventure. And if you'd rather have someone plan it for you? I do that too.